My current research involves a multi-year panel study of racial and ethnic differences in academic performance. A substantial body of research documents a gap in performance among different groups, yet the reasons why are only partly clear. Our research design follows two cohorts of Duke University undergraduates, the incoming classes of 2001 and 2002, surveyed before coming to Duke and approximately, annualy thereafter until exit from Duke. Empirical comparisons examine differential in human, cultural and social capital, negative stereotyping and identity dynamics, social networks, and residential, social and academic climates as these evolve during the undergraduate years.

Martin, ND; Spenner, KI; Mustillo, SA (2017). A Test of Leading Explanations for the College Racial-Ethnic Achievement Gap: Evidence from a Longitudinal Case Study. Research in Higher Education, 58(6), 617-645. [doi]

Arcidiacono, P; Aucejo, EM; Spenner, K (2012). What happens after enrollment? An analysis of the time path of racial differences in GPA and major choice. Iza Journal of Labor Economics, 1(1), 5-5. [doi]